General Vocabulary

Artillery Weapons for discharging missiles; a large-bore, crew-served mounted firearm, such as a howitzer; ordnance.

Battalion A military unit composed of a headquarters and two or more companies, batteries or similar units.

Battery A grouping of artillery pieces for tactical purposes; the guns of a warship; an artillery unit in the army equivalent to a company.

Cannon A large heavy gun usually mounted on a carriage; a heavy-caliber automatic aircraft gun firing explosive shells.

Cavalry An army component using motor vehicles or helicopters and assigned to combat missions that require great mobility; formerly, an army component mounted on horseback.

Company A body of soldiers, especially a unit consisting of a headquarters and two or more platoons. Also, the officers and crew of a ship.

Field artilleryArtillery other than antiaircraft artillery used with armies in the field. Infantry Soldiers trained, armed and equipped to fight on foot.

Joint Chiefs of Staff (U.S.) The Joint Chiefs of Staff are the heads of each branch of the U.S. military. The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is the principal military adviser to the President, Secretary of Defense and National Security Council.

Ordnance Military supplies including weapons, ammunition, combat vehicles and maintenance tools and equipment; a service of the army charged with procuring, distributing and safekeeping ordnance.

Platoon A subdivision of a company-sized military unit normally consisting of two or more squads or sections.

Squad A small organized group of personnel, especially a tactical unit that can be easily directed in the field.

Stealth bomber See B-2 Spirit

Stealth fighter See F-117A

Aircraft

Bombers

A-10 Thunderbolt - (U.S. Air Force) A tankbuster, also known as "The Warthog." It's distinctive in having two fat turbofan engines above its fuselage. The Thunderbolt can carry a variety of bombs and missiles, plus it has a 30mm Gatling gun in its nose, which can fire 3900 rounds a minute. This plane can go only 400+ mph, but it's easy to maneuver and designed to give close support to ground troops.

B-1B Lancer - (U.S. Air Force) Multi-role, heavy bomber with a speed of 900+ mph and the ability to fly intercontinental missions without refuelling. Armed with short-range attack missiles, bombs and cruise missiles. Manned by a crew of four, which includes a commander, copilot, offensive systems officer and defensive systems officer. One of the most notable features of this aircraft is its "swing wings" that fold back.

B-2 Spirit(Stealth Bomber) - (U.S. Air Force) A multi-role heavy bomber that travels at high subsonic speed (which is "relatively slow" by military aircraft standards)and costs $2.2 billion each. Can carry conventional or nuclear arms. Manned by two pilots. Its stealth features include its design (triangular shape), the covering or "skin" that reduces reflection or radar signature, and other techniques such as masking the heat from its engines. B-2's from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, and Guam can cover the entire globe with only one mid-air refuelling.

Fighters

Eurofighter (Royal Air Force) Due to enter RAF service in mid-2002, the Eurofighter will replace the Tornado F3 in the air defense role and Jaguars in the ground attack mission. The Eurofighter incorporates new state-of-the-art systems including the ECR-90 multi-mode radar and IRIS-T, an Infrared Search and Track weapon. It will reach speeds up to 1321 mph and carry a single 27mm Mauser cannon fitted internally.

F-117A Nighthawk (U.S. Air Force) World's first operational stealth aircraft, known as a fighter but used primarily as a bomber. The F-117A is a small aircraft used for precision attacks against difficult targets; it flew more than a third of the bombing runs on the first day of the Gulf War, although there were only 36 of them among 1900 allied combat aircraft.

F-15C Eagle (U.S. Air Force) Tactical fighter that can reach speeds of 1875 mph (up to 2.5 times the speed of sound at sea level). Armed with various air-to-air missiles and manned by a crew of one or two, depending on model.

F-15E Strike Eagle (U.S. Air Force) Tactical fighter. Can reach a speed of 1875 mph (up to 2.5 times the speed of sound at sea level) and carries various air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. Manned by a crew of one or two, depending on model. The Strike Eagle is designed for low-altitude, high-speed penetration of enemy territory and precision attacks.

F-16 Fighting Falcon (U.S. Air Force) The backbone of the U.S.A.F. Built in a consortium with four other NATO countries, the Fighting Falcon is a multirole fighting jet with speeds up to 1500 mph. Used in air-to-air combat and air-to-surface attacks. Manned by a crew of one or two, depending on model.

F/A-18 Hornet (U.S. Navy) Multirole attack, carrier-borne strike aircraft that can reach a speed of 1261 mph. Armed with one M61A1/A2 Vulcan 20 mm cannon and designed to be a fighter or capable of ground attack and reconnaissance. Flown by one or two pilots. The E/F Super Hornets are the latest version of this plane.

Harrier GR7/T10 (Royal Air Force) A fixed-wing V/STOL (Vertical/Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft. The Harrier, also know as the 'jump jet,' can take off vertically and hover like a helicopter. Powered by a Rolls Royce engine, its maximum speed is 661 mph. It is armed with two 25mm cannons and up to 16 MK82 or 6 MK83 bombs, 6 BL-755 cluster bombs, 4 Maverick ASMs, or 10 rocket pods on its wing stations. Carries forward-looking infrared (FLIR) equipment; used in conjunction with the pilot's night vision goggles, the FLIR provides a night, low-level capability. The Harrier is also used by the USMC, where it is known as the AV-8B. (Our thanks to Lawrence Brady for assistance with this definition.)

Jaguar GR1B/T2A (Royal Air Force) A fighter-bomber. Its potent arsenal includes cluster, freefall, retard and laser-guided bombs, as well as rockets on its wings. Two 30mm cannon are mounted internally. The aircraft carries the thermal imaging and laser designation (TIALD) pod to mark targets for laser-guided weapons. For self-defense, it employs Sidewinder infrared missiles and a comprehensive suite of electronic countermeasures. Its most impressive feature is its navigation and attack system: with mission data fed into the computer, all the necessary information for a pinpoint attack is relayed to the head-up display, telling the pilot exactly where the target is and when to release his weapons for maximum effect. The top speed of the Jaguar GR1B is 990 mph, flown by one pilot.

LANTIRN ("Low altitude navigation and targeting infrared for night") A targeting system on the F-14 Tomcat to drop laser-guided bombs for precision strikes on ground targets.

Tornado F3 (Royal Air Force) The Tornado F3 specializes in long-range interception and is a defensive aircraft for the RAF. It carries four Skyflash radar-guided missiles and four AIM-9 Sidewinder infrared homing air-to-air missiles, plus an internally mounted 27mm Mauser cannon. Tornado F3's are now equipped with the new Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS). Operating in conjunction with Sentry AEW1, the system gives a real-time picture of air battle. The crew can use information gathered from the other source to select its own target and move to within kill distance without using the fighter's own search radar with its position-revealing signature until the very last moment. Flying at 1480 mph, it reaches its kill distance rather quickly.

Tornado GR1/GR1B/GR4 (Royal Air Force) Mainstay of the UK strike/attack force is the GR1. The GR1A is a dedicated reconnaissance version. The fighter Tornado carries 2 IWKA-Mauser 27mm cannons and up to 18,000 pounds of ordnance. It carries a pilot and a navigator at a maximum speed of 1452 mph.

Helicopters

AH-64 Apache (U.S. Army) U.S. Army's main attack helicopter. Carries guns, rockets and missiles. The latest version is called the Longbow; it has a targeting system that can scan an area, detect more than 100 targets, decide which are the most dangerous and share the information with other aircraft. The Apache is flown by a crew of two: pilot in back and gunner in front.

Chinook HC2 (Royal Air Force) With its tandem-rotor design (two propellers, one at the front and one at the back), the Chinook is one of the most easily identified helicopters in the world. It can carry 45 fully equipped troops or up to 28,000 pounds of cargo or small vehicles at speeds up to 185 mph. Its large load carrying ability makes the Chinook an ideal battlefield support aircraft.

HH-60G Pave Hawk (U.S. Navy) A highly modified version of the UH-60 Black Hawk. Primary function is combat search & rescue and military operations in any light and any weather condition. Flies at speeds up to 184 mph. Armed with two 7.62 mm machine guns and flown by two pilots, one flight engineer and one gunner.

MH-53J Pave Low (U.S. Air Force) Most sophisticated helicopter operated by the U.S.A.F. Has terrain-following radar which allows it to fly low, plus infrared sensors so it can fly low even in bad weather, to drop off, supply and bring out special ops forces.

Puma HC1 (Royal Air Force) A versatile helicopter, the Puma can operate as a casualty evacuation aircraft, troop transport for up to 16 fully equipped troops, a medium lift transport for up to 5500 pounds of freight (slinging loads underneath it), and as a gunship carrying a wide variety of armament.

SH-60 Seahawk (U.S. Navy) An antisubmarine and rescue craft. Flies at a top speed of 207 mph. Ordinarily the Seahawk is armed with two 7.62 mm machine guns mounted in the windows, but can also be equipped with AGM-114 Hellfire or AGM-119 Penguin missiles, three MK46 or MK50 torpedoes or additional .50-caliber machine guns mounted in the doors. Flown by a crew of three or four.

UH-60 Black Hawk (U.S. Army) Front-line utility helicopter. Used for a variety of missions, from carrying troops to evacuating casualties. The special ops version carries two removable fuel tanks, two machine guns, an air-to-air refuelling probe and an external hoist.

Surveillance

AWACS (Airborne warning and control system) A category of planes carrying big, rotating radar discs for use in surveillance during military operations.

E3-D Sentry (Royal Air Force) Flying with a crew of 4 and 13 or more systems operators, the Sentry has a rotodome mounted above the rear fuselage. Technically, this plane is an Airborne Early Warning (AEW) platform. It flies at 29,000 feet to extend the range of ground-based radar, giving longer warning time of the approach of potentially hostile targets.

Canberra PR9/T4 (Royal Air Force) The PR9 is a specialist aircraft that contributes significantly to the RAF's reconnaissance tasks through a wide range of vertical and oblique cameras. It flies at only 547 mph, but has a high operational ceiling of 48,000 feet, which helps it to avoid opposing fighter aircraft.

E-A6 Prowler (U.S. Navy) This aircraft specializes in electronic countermeasures, at speeds up to 575 mph. It's armed with AGM-88A HARM missiles and is run by a pilot and three electronic countermeasures officers.

E-2 Hawkeye (U.S. Air Force) Airborne early warning, command and control airplane. Runs at speeds up to 345 mph, but carries no weapons. Manned by a crew of five.

E-2C Hawkeye (U.S. Navy) Smaller version of the E-2 Hawkeye, the E-2C is a twin-engine turboprop operating from U.S. Navy aircraft carriers.

E-3 Sentry (AWACS) (U.S. Air Force) Airliner-sized jet (modified Boeing 707), used for airborne surveillance, command, control and communications. Optimum cruise speed of this plane is 360 mph and it can patrol over 8 hours without refueling. A large mission crew can fly on this plane: four flight crew, plus 13-19 specialists, depending on needs.

E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) (U.S. Air Force) Battle management from the air: surveys enemy's ground position and relays information in real-time to ground stations. It works with a canoe-shaped radar disc under its nose. The E-8C's optimum orbit speed is 448 mph to 587 mph. This is another large plane, like the E-3 Sentry, and it, too, can carry a large crew: four flight crew, plus a mission crew of 15 Air Force and 3 Army specialists.

Nimrod MR2 (Royal Air Force) A maritime patrol aircraft used in the roles of maritime surface surveillance, anti-submarine warfare and search and rescue. A crew of 13 run its radar, magnetic and acoustic detection equipment. The Nimrod is armed with internal bays for up to 9 torpedoes, bombs and depth charges; Sidewinder AAMs can be carried on underwing pylons for self-defense.

RC-135V/W Rivet Joint (U.S. Air Force) Another version of the E-2 type planes, this one gathers images and electronic signals.

S-3 Viking (U.S. Navy) The Viking is a multifaceted plane, specializing in day and/or night surveillance, anti-submarine and surface warfare and an aerial tanker. It flies at speeds up to 518 mph and carries the following armament: up to 3958 pounds of AGM-84 Harpoon, AGM-65 Maverick and AGM-84 SLAM missiles, torpedoes, mines, rockets and bombs. A crew of two to four controls this plane.

Tornado GR1A (Royal Air Force) Specializes in all-weather, day and night tactical reconnaissance. It carries a Sideways Looking Infrared system and a Linescan infrared surveillance system. It's fast for a surveillance aircraft, flying at speeds up to 1452 mph, and it carries up to 18,000 pounds of ordnance.

U-2 (U.S. Air Force) At first glance, a relic of the Cold War, but the U-2's specialty is high-altitude reconnaissance, and that is still a necessary chore. The U-2 works day or night, in every kind of weather. It carries a variety of sensors, including cameras and imaging radars. Flying at a top speed of 475 mph, the U-2 isn't built for combat. One pilot flies this craft, and he has to wear a full pressure suit due to the aircraft's extreme operating altitude.

Tankers

KC-135 Stratotanker (U.S. Air Force) The Stratotanker is the agent for aerial refueling and airlift. It travels at 530 mph and has a maximum jet fuel load for transfer of 200,000 pounds. A crew of four flies this tanker.

Transport

C-2 Greyhound (U.S. Navy) Carrier-on-board delivery aircraft, travelling at speeds up to 345 mph. It has no weapons aboard and is flown by a crew of four.

C-5 Galaxy (U. S. Air Force) One of the biggest aircraft in the world. It can carry oversized cargo through intercontinental ranges and can take off at 8300 feet and land within 4900 feet relatively short distances. The Galaxy carries almost all of the Army's combat equipment.

C-17 Globemaster III Transport (U.S. Air Force and Royal Air Force) The latest U.S. transport aircraft. Carries cargo and troops with a maximum payload of 172,200 pounds. The Globemaster flies at speeds up to 518 mph and is flown by a crew of three.

C-130 Hercules Transport (U.S. Air Force and Royal Air Force) Tried and true, the Hercules has been in production longer than any other aircraft in history. It's designed to perform tactical and intratheater airlifts. It can carry a payload of 42,000 pounds and is the most widely flown military transport plane. A crew of three to five flies this craft.

VC10 C1K/K2/K3/K4 (Royal Air Force) The VC10 is a flexible aircraft. The C1K are used for military transport, carrying 120 passengers or freight, and can be adapted for use as tankers with the addition of wing-mounted refuelling pods. The K2s, 3s and 4s all have wing refuelling points for fighters and a centerline refuelling capability to provide additional support for large aircraft.

Unmanned Aircraft

Predator Unmanned Reconnaissance Aircraft (U.S. Air Force) The Predator is used for airborne surveillance reconnaissance and target acquisition. It cruises between 84-140 mph and can range for 400 nautical miles. It has real-time surveillance capabilities, transmitting images without landing. The Predator flies at 26,000 feet and can stay aloft for 24 hours.

Bombs

Cluster bombs Highly controversial weapons dropped from the air. They consist of a canister containing a large number of submunitions or bomblets. The bomblets can be anti-personnel, anti-tank, dual-purpose or incendiary. They stay on the ground and explode under pressure like landmines. Human rights groups want them banned; the military sees them as very useful in certain circumstances.

Dumb bombs Sometimes called "iron bombs" traditional freefall bombs. The LANTIRN system can be used as a targeting mechanism on dumb bombs. These bombs are primarily used against military formations that are in the open.

Fuel-air bombs Vaporize a fuel in the air, then ignite it, producing a fireball and rapidly expanding blast wave many times greater than the explosion from conventional bombs. The explosion creates a vacuum; thus, these bombs are like small nuclear weapons, without the radiation. Useful against targets such as bunkers and caves, where the aerosol cloud can penetrate and the confined space magnifies the blast.

Carrier Battle Groups

Aircraft carrier An aircraft carrier heads up a carrier battle group. On board the carriers are typically 70-80 planes for defense, attack, refuelling in flight, jamming enemy communications and radars, and for airborne surveillance and control.

Carrier Battle Group A group of ships and aircraft deployed for battle. For example, the USS Theodore Roosevelt is the carrier at the head of a battle group involved in the attacks against the Taliban. Included in the Theodore Roosevelt's complement are two attack submarines, the USS Hartford and USS Springfield, which can fire Tomahawk cruise missiles and 2100 Marines aboard a group of vessels led by the assault ship USS Bataan. The troop of 2100 soldiers comes with supporting artillery, amphibious assault vehicles and light armor, plus transport and attack helicopters and AV-8B Harrier II "jump jets," capable of taking off and landing vertically. USS Carl Vinson An aircraft carrier heading up a battle group in the Persian Gulf. Mailing address: USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70) FPO AP 96629-2840

USS Enterprise An aircraft carrier heading up a battle group in the Arabian Sea.

USS Kitty Hawk The only US aircraft carrier stationed in the western Pacific, the Kitty Hawk has reportedly left its full complement of fighter jets behind and will be used as a landing pad for helicopters involved in the attack on the Taliban.

USS Theodore Roosevelt Aircraft carrier at the head of the battle group involved in the strikes against the Taliban. Included in its complement are two attack submarines, the USS Hartford and USS Springfield, which can fire Tomahawk cruise missiles. The group includes 2100 Marines aboard a group of vessels led by the assault ship USS Bataan. The group includes group troops with supporting artillery, amphibious assault vehicles and light armor, plus transport and attack helicopters and AV-8B Harrier "jump jets," capable of taking off and landing vertically.

Missiles

AGM-86 Cruise An air-launched cruise missile made by Boeing. Has a range of 1550 miles and a speed of 550 mph, propelled by a turbofan jet engine. The AGM-86 flies at low altitudes and relies on its global positioning system to seek targets. It is launched from the B-52H and B-1B.

AGM-88 HARM The AGM-88 HARM (high-speed antiradiation missile) is an air-to-surface anti-radiation missile designed to destroy radar-equipped air defense systems. The proportional guidance system hones in on enemy radar emissions. The F-16C can carry and launch the AGM-88, and is the only aircraft currently equipped with AGM-88.

AIM-9 Sidewinder An infrared air-to-air missile that homes onto the heat of a target aircraft and can operate independently of radar. Used in a dog-fighting capacity.

Air-to-ground missiles Can have either a TV camera or infrared imaging device in their nose for guidance. This lets the attack crew see the target from the weapon's point of view. They can lock onto the target or, in some types, steer the rocket-powered missiles onto it. Some types of missiles allow one plane to fire and another to guide.

Ballistic missile A guided rocket-powered delivery vehicle for use against ground targets. A large portion of its flight is in a ballistic (freefall) trajectory. Ballistic missiles are an optimal delivery systems for weapons of mass destruction because it is difficult to deter them.

Cruise missile A generic name for any self-propelled, guided missile that flies at a moderate speed and at a low altitude, following the terrain beneath it. They are a staple of armaments because they are cheap (approximately $600,000 remember, we're talking the military budget), simple to build and can be launched in large numbers from sea, land or air. The Tomahawk is a cruise missile.

Digital Scene Matching Area Correlation (DSMAC) DSMAC compares what it can see on the cruise missile's approach to its target with a digital rendition of that target that the missile carries in its memory. DSMAC is dependent on intelligence to provide it with up-to-date information about target buildings and civilian shelters.

GBU-28 A 5000-pound laser-guided weapon that can travel more than 5 nautical miles and penetrate earth and rock up to 22 feet before exploding.

Global Positioning System Uses a global network of satellites to provide accurate navigational information for sailors, hill walkers, drivers and missiles. The weapon is programmed with the target location and can steer itself towards it by constant reference to the satellites.

JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) JDAM is a global positioning system kit that converts freefalling conventional bombs into "smart" ones with a targeting and guidance mechanism.

Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW)A new air-to-ground smart bomb with a 15-50 mile range. It uses global positioning to seek targets and is used to attack targets from outside enemy air defenses.

Laser-guidance systemLaser-guided bombs have a seeker in their nose which tracks a laser beam trained on the target by the aircraft dropping the bomb, another aircraft, or forces on the ground.

Terrain Contour Matching (TERCOM) The heart of the cruise missile. TERCOM allows the weapon to "read" the ground over which it flies. The missile itself carries a 3-D map of its route. TERCOM compares a picture of the ground to the map in its memory and adjusts its course as needed. This minimizes radar detection.

Raytheon BGM-109 Tomahawk Cruise missile The missile of choice for U.S. forces and the British Royal Navy. A land-attack cruise missile that can travel around 1000 miles. It uses TERCOM and DSMAC intelligence to reach and hit targets and can be launched from ships or submarine torpedo tubes.

Special Forces

82nd Airborne Division (U.S.) Although not designated a special forces outfit, the 82nd is usually the first U.S. troops to touch ground in a conflict. They were the first to touch ground in Kosovo, the major force in ousting Norega in Panama and, only 7 months later, the first outfit in Saudi Arabia as the Gulf War began. In 1992 these tough guys spent a month in Southern Florida, just ravaged by hurrican Andrew, providing food, shelter and medical attention to a grateful people in that state.

Air Force Special Operations Forces (U.S.) The Air Force Special Ops Forces provide transport and close-air support as part of any special ops mission. Close-air support means that they fire on targets, participate in refueling, resupplying and other support tasks.

Army Rangers (U.S.) Spearhead of the Army's special operations forces. They are ready to go by land, air and sea, anywhere, at a moment's notice. The Rangers specialize in rapid infantry assault, night fighting and airfield seizure. They are supported by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, better known as "Night Stalkers," which use state-of-the-art aircraft and equipment to assist all special ops forces.

Delta Force (U.S.) Delta Force is one of the U.S. military's elite special ops units, drawing members from all military branches. Modeled on the British SAS. The composition, strength and abilities of Delta Force are a secret, as are all of its missions. Their training, however, focuses on counter-terrorism and hostage rescue.

Green Berets (U.S.) The real name of the Green Berets is "U.S. Army Special Forces (Airborne)." The name "Green Berets" comes from the most distinctive part of their uniform, of course. The Green Berets appear in a variety of missions, including unconventional warfare, special reconnaissance, direct action and counter-terrorism. They also train guerilla troops in other countries; therefore, each member must be able to speak at least one language other than English. (Do any Green Berets use YDC's resources for language study? We can neither confirm nor deny that.)

The Royal Gurkha Rifles (U.K.) The Gurkhas, a British special ops unit that has existed since 1815, has historically been known for its ferocity and military ability. Today there are 3400 troops.

Marine Expeditionary Units(U.S.) Not technically a special ops force, the Expeditionary Units are "special ops capable." They're quite capable of quick, compact, multifaceted military campaigns. These units have more equipment, logistical and technical support, weaponry and soldiers than their conventional Marine counterparts, all to the purpose of providing the commander-in-chief with operational maneuver capability from the sea. Each Expeditionary Unit includes 2200 personnel. The infantry battalion uses amphibious assault and light-armored vehicles; the aviation unit employs helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft such as Harrier jets.

Navy SEALs (U.S.) SEAL stands for Sea, Air, Land, and the SEALs are the U.S. Navy's most acclaimed special ops unit. They operate mainly in 16-man groups and are capable of conducting top-secret ground- and water-based missions. Larger teams are often divided into "cells" to work at evasion and recovery, force protection, sniper duties, and so forth.

Royal Marines (U.K.) The Royal Marines are the British Navy's infantry brigade. They're employed mainly for amphibious operations or from airplanes and retain a commando unit in constant readiness to deploy worldwide on short notice.

Parachute Regiment (U.K.) A British Army regiment, the Paras comprise four battalions. One is in a constant state of readiness, while the Pathfinder Platoon conducts reconnaissance and advance missions before any airborne assaults.

Special Air Service (U.K.) The most well-known of British special ops units, the SAS lives by the motto "Who Dares Wins." The SAS is a regiment of the British Army, specializing in counter-terrorism operations.

Post a comment.

Glossary of Allied Weaponry

By YourDictionary

General VocabularyAir-to-air combat See Fighters. Artillery Weapons for discharging missiles; a large-bore, crew-served mounted firearm, such as a howitzer; ordnance.Battalion A military unit composed of a headquarters and two or more companies, batteries or similar units.Battery A grouping of artillery pieces for tactical purposes; the guns of a warship; an artillery unit in the army equivalent to a company.Cannon A large heavy gun usually mounted on a carriage; a heavy-caliber automatic aircraft gun firing explosive shells.Cavalry An army component using motor vehicles or helicopters and assigned to combat missions that require great mobility; formerly, an army component mounted on horseback.Company A body of soldiers, especially a unit consisting of a headquarters and two or more platoons. Also, the officers and crew of a ship.Field artillery Artillery other than antiaircraft artillery used with armies in the field. Infantry Soldiers trained, armed and equipped to fight on foot.Joint Chiefs of Staff (U.S.) The Joint Chiefs of Staff are the heads of each branch of the U.S. military. The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is the principal military adviser to the President, Secretary of Defense and National Security Council.Ordnance Military supplies including weapons, ammunition, combat vehicles and maintenance tools and equipment; a service of the army charged with procuring, distributing and safekeeping ordnance.Platoon A subdivision of a company-sized military unit normally consisting of two or more squads or sections.Squad A small organized group of personnel, especially a tactical unit that can be easily directed in the field.Stealth bomber See B-2 SpiritStealth fighter See F-117AAircraftBombersA-10 Thunderbolt - (U.S. Air Force) A tankbuster, also known as "The Warthog." It's distinctive in having two fat turbofan engines above its fuselage. The Thunderbolt can carry a variety of bombs and missiles, plus it has a 30mm Gatling gun in its nose, which can fire 3900 rounds a minute. This plane can go only 400+ mph, but it's easy to maneuver and designed to give close support to ground troops. B-1B Lancer - (U.S. Air Force) Multi-role, heavy bomber with a speed of 900+ mph and the ability to fly intercontinental missions without refuelling. Armed with short-range attack missiles, bombs and cruise missiles. Manned by a crew of four, which includes a commander, copilot, offensive systems officer and defensive systems officer. One of the most notable features of this aircraft is its "swing wings" that fold back.B-2 Spirit (Stealth Bomber) - (U.S. Air Force) A multi-role heavy bomber that travels at high subsonic speed (which is "relatively slow" by military aircraft standards)and costs $2.2 billion each. Can carry conventional or nuclear arms. Manned by two pilots. Its stealth features include its design (triangular shape), the covering or "skin" that reduces reflection or radar signature, and other techniques such as masking the heat from its engines. B-2's from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, and Guam can cover the entire globe with only one mid-air refuelling. B-52 Stratofortress - (U.S. Air Force) A heavy, intercontinental bomber that goes at 650 mph. Armed with 70,000 pounds of mixed ordnance including bombs, mines and 20 cruise missiles. Five crewmembers fly the Stratofortress: commander, pilot, radar navigator, navigator and electronic warfare officer. In the Gulf War, seven B-52's flew from Louisiana to Baghdad, the longest combat sorties in history, taking 35 hours to cover more than 14,000 miles.FightersEurofighter (Royal Air Force) Due to enter RAF service in mid-2002, the Eurofighter will replace the Tornado F3 in the air defense role and Jaguars in the ground attack mission. The Eurofighter incorporates new state-of-the-art systems including the ECR-90 multi-mode radar and IRIS-T, an Infrared Search and Track weapon. It will reach speeds up to 1321 mph and carry a single 27mm Mauser cannon fitted internally.F-117A Nighthawk (U.S. Air Force) World's first operational stealth aircraft, known as a fighter but used primarily as a bomber. The F-117A is a small aircraft used for precision attacks against difficult targets; it flew more than a third of the bombing runs on the first day of the Gulf War, although there were only 36 of them among 1900 allied combat aircraft. F-14 Tomcat (U.S. Navy) Strike fighter, based on aircraft carriers. Can reach a speed of 1484 mph and carry up to 13,000 pounds. Its arsenal includes the AIM-54 Phoenix missile, AIM-7 Sparrow missile, AIM-9 Sidewinder missile, air-to-ground precision strike ordnance and one M61A1/A2 Vulcan 20mm cannon. Manned by a crew of two: pilot and radar intercept officer.F-15C Eagle (U.S. Air Force) Tactical fighter that can reach speeds of 1875 mph (up to 2.5 times the speed of sound at sea level). Armed with various air-to-air missiles and manned by a crew of one or two, depending on model. F-15E Strike Eagle (U.S. Air Force) Tactical fighter. Can reach a speed of 1875 mph (up to 2.5 times the speed of sound at sea level) and carries various air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. Manned by a crew of one or two, depending on model. The Strike Eagle is designed for low-altitude, high-speed penetration of enemy territory and precision attacks.F-16 Fighting Falcon (U.S. Air Force) The backbone of the U.S.A.F. Built in a consortium with four other NATO countries, the Fighting Falcon is a multirole fighting jet with speeds up to 1500 mph. Used in air-to-air combat and air-to-surface attacks. Manned by a crew of one or two, depending on model.F/A-18 Hornet (U.S. Navy) Multirole attack, carrier-borne strike aircraft that can reach a speed of 1261 mph. Armed with one M61A1/A2 Vulcan 20 mm cannon and designed to be a fighter or capable of ground attack and reconnaissance. Flown by one or two pilots. The E/F Super Hornets are the latest version of this plane. Harrier GR7/T10 (Royal Air Force) A fixed-wing V/STOL (Vertical/Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft. The Harrier, also know as the 'jump jet,' can take off vertically and hover like a helicopter. Powered by a Rolls Royce engine, its maximum speed is 661 mph. It is armed with two 25mm cannons and up to 16 MK82 or 6 MK83 bombs, 6 BL-755 cluster bombs, 4 Maverick ASMs, or 10 rocket pods on its wing stations. Carries forward-looking infrared (FLIR) equipment; used in conjunction with the pilot's night vision goggles, the FLIR provides a night, low-level capability. The Harrier is also used by the USMC, where it is known as the AV-8B. (Our thanks to Lawrence Brady for assistance with this definition.) Jaguar GR1B/T2A (Royal Air Force) A fighter-bomber. Its potent arsenal includes cluster, freefall, retard and laser-guided bombs, as well as rockets on its wings. Two 30mm cannon are mounted internally. The aircraft carries the thermal imaging and laser designation (TIALD) pod to mark targets for laser-guided weapons. For self-defense, it employs Sidewinder infrared missiles and a comprehensive suite of electronic countermeasures. Its most impressive feature is its navigation and attack system: with mission data fed into the computer, all the necessary information for a pinpoint attack is relayed to the head-up display, telling the pilot exactly where the target is and when to release his weapons for maximum effect. The top speed of the Jaguar GR1B is 990 mph, flown by one pilot. LANTIRN ("Low altitude navigation and targeting infrared for night") A targeting system on the F-14 Tomcat to drop laser-guided bombs for precision strikes on ground targets. Tornado F3 (Royal Air Force) The Tornado F3 specializes in long-range interception and is a defensive aircraft for the RAF. It carries four Skyflash radar-guided missiles and four AIM-9 Sidewinder infrared homing air-to-air missiles, plus an internally mounted 27mm Mauser cannon. Tornado F3's are now equipped with the new Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS). Operating in conjunction with Sentry AEW1, the system gives a real-time picture of air battle. The crew can use information gathered from the other source to select its own target and move to within kill distance without using the fighter's own search radar with its position-revealing signature until the very last moment. Flying at 1480 mph, it reaches its kill distance rather quickly. Tornado GR1/GR1B/GR4 (Royal Air Force) Mainstay of the UK strike/attack force is the GR1. The GR1A is a dedicated reconnaissance version. The fighter Tornado carries 2 IWKA-Mauser 27mm cannons and up to 18,000 pounds of ordnance. It carries a pilot and a navigator at a maximum speed of 1452 mph.HelicoptersAH-1W Super Cobra (U.S. Marine Corps) The U.S. Marines' light attack helicopter. AH-64 Apache (U.S. Army) U.S. Army's main attack helicopter. Carries guns, rockets and missiles. The latest version is called the Longbow; it has a targeting system that can scan an area, detect more than 100 targets, decide which are the most dangerous and share the information with other aircraft. The Apache is flown by a crew of two: pilot in back and gunner in front. Chinook HC2 (Royal Air Force) With its tandem-rotor design (two propellers, one at the front and one at the back), the Chinook is one of the most easily identified helicopters in the world. It can carry 45 fully equipped troops or up to 28,000 pounds of cargo or small vehicles at speeds up to 185 mph. Its large load carrying ability makes the Chinook an ideal battlefield support aircraft. HH-60G Pave Hawk (U.S. Navy) A highly modified version of the UH-60 Black Hawk. Primary function is combat search & rescue and military operations in any light and any weather condition. Flies at speeds up to 184 mph. Armed with two 7.62 mm machine guns and flown by two pilots, one flight engineer and one gunner. MH-53J Pave Low (U.S. Air Force) Most sophisticated helicopter operated by the U.S.A.F. Has terrain-following radar which allows it to fly low, plus infrared sensors so it can fly low even in bad weather, to drop off, supply and bring out special ops forces. Puma HC1 (Royal Air Force) A versatile helicopter, the Puma can operate as a casualty evacuation aircraft, troop transport for up to 16 fully equipped troops, a medium lift transport for up to 5500 pounds of freight (slinging loads underneath it), and as a gunship carrying a wide variety of armament. SH-60 Seahawk (U.S. Navy) An antisubmarine and rescue craft. Flies at a top speed of 207 mph. Ordinarily the Seahawk is armed with two 7.62 mm machine guns mounted in the windows, but can also be equipped with AGM-114 Hellfire or AGM-119 Penguin missiles, three MK46 or MK50 torpedoes or additional .50-caliber machine guns mounted in the doors. Flown by a crew of three or four. UH-60 Black Hawk (U.S. Army) Front-line utility helicopter. Used for a variety of missions, from carrying troops to evacuating casualties. The special ops version carries two removable fuel tanks, two machine guns, an air-to-air refuelling probe and an external hoist.SurveillanceAWACS (Airborne warning and control system) A category of planes carrying big, rotating radar discs for use in surveillance during military operations. E3-D Sentry (Royal Air Force) Flying with a crew of 4 and 13 or more systems operators, the Sentry has a rotodome mounted above the rear fuselage. Technically, this plane is an Airborne Early Warning (AEW) platform. It flies at 29,000 feet to extend the range of ground-based radar, giving longer warning time of the approach of potentially hostile targets. Canberra PR9/T4 (Royal Air Force) The PR9 is a specialist aircraft that contributes significantly to the RAF's reconnaissance tasks through a wide range of vertical and oblique cameras. It flies at only 547 mph, but has a high operational ceiling of 48,000 feet, which helps it to avoid opposing fighter aircraft. E-A6 Prowler (U.S. Navy) This aircraft specializes in electronic countermeasures, at speeds up to 575 mph. It's armed with AGM-88A HARM missiles and is run by a pilot and three electronic countermeasures officers. E-2 Hawkeye (U.S. Air Force) Airborne early warning, command and control airplane. Runs at speeds up to 345 mph, but carries no weapons. Manned by a crew of five. E-2C Hawkeye (U.S. Navy) Smaller version of the E-2 Hawkeye, the E-2C is a twin-engine turboprop operating from U.S. Navy aircraft carriers.E-3 Sentry (AWACS) (U.S. Air Force) Airliner-sized jet (modified Boeing 707), used for airborne surveillance, command, control and communications. Optimum cruise speed of this plane is 360 mph and it can patrol over 8 hours without refueling. A large mission crew can fly on this plane: four flight crew, plus 13-19 specialists, depending on needs. E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) (U.S. Air Force) Battle management from the air: surveys enemy's ground position and relays information in real-time to ground stations. It works with a canoe-shaped radar disc under its nose. The E-8C's optimum orbit speed is 448 mph to 587 mph. This is another large plane, like the E-3 Sentry, and it, too, can carry a large crew: four flight crew, plus a mission crew of 15 Air Force and 3 Army specialists. Nimrod MR2 (Royal Air Force) A maritime patrol aircraft used in the roles of maritime surface surveillance, anti-submarine warfare and search and rescue. A crew of 13 run its radar, magnetic and acoustic detection equipment. The Nimrod is armed with internal bays for up to 9 torpedoes, bombs and depth charges; Sidewinder AAMs can be carried on underwing pylons for self-defense. RC-135V/W Rivet Joint (U.S. Air Force) Another version of the E-2 type planes, this one gathers images and electronic signals. S-3 Viking (U.S. Navy) The Viking is a multifaceted plane, specializing in day and/or night surveillance, anti-submarine and surface warfare and an aerial tanker. It flies at speeds up to 518 mph and carries the following armament: up to 3958 pounds of AGM-84 Harpoon, AGM-65 Maverick and AGM-84 SLAM missiles, torpedoes, mines, rockets and bombs. A crew of two to four controls this plane.Tornado GR1A (Royal Air Force) Specializes in all-weather, day and night tactical reconnaissance. It carries a Sideways Looking Infrared system and a Linescan infrared surveillance system. It's fast for a surveillance aircraft, flying at speeds up to 1452 mph, and it carries up to 18,000 pounds of ordnance.U-2 (U.S. Air Force) At first glance, a relic of the Cold War, but the U-2's specialty is high-altitude reconnaissance, and that is still a necessary chore. The U-2 works day or night, in every kind of weather. It carries a variety of sensors, including cameras and imaging radars. Flying at a top speed of 475 mph, the U-2 isn't built for combat. One pilot flies this craft, and he has to wear a full pressure suit due to the aircraft's extreme operating altitude.TankersKC-10 Extender (U.S. Air Force) A refuelling tanker derived from the DC-10 airliner. KC-135 Stratotanker (U.S. Air Force) The Stratotanker is the agent for aerial refueling and airlift. It travels at 530 mph and has a maximum jet fuel load for transfer of 200,000 pounds. A crew of four flies this tanker.TransportC-2 Greyhound (U.S. Navy) Carrier-on-board delivery aircraft, travelling at speeds up to 345 mph. It has no weapons aboard and is flown by a crew of four. C-5 Galaxy (U. S. Air Force) One of the biggest aircraft in the world. It can carry oversized cargo through intercontinental ranges and can take off at 8300 feet and land within 4900 feet relatively short distances. The Galaxy carries almost all of the Army's combat equipment. C-17 Globemaster III Transport (U.S. Air Force and Royal Air Force) The latest U.S. transport aircraft. Carries cargo and troops with a maximum payload of 172,200 pounds. The Globemaster flies at speeds up to 518 mph and is flown by a crew of three. C-130 Hercules Transport (U.S. Air Force and Royal Air Force) Tried and true, the Hercules has been in production longer than any other aircraft in history. It's designed to perform tactical and intratheater airlifts. It can carry a payload of 42,000 pounds and is the most widely flown military transport plane. A crew of three to five flies this craft. Tristar C2/K1/KC1 (Royal Air Force) Dedicated transport aircraft that can carry 265 passengers and 35,000 pounds of freight over ranges in excess of 4000 miles. VC10 C1K/K2/K3/K4 (Royal Air Force) The VC10 is a flexible aircraft. The C1K are used for military transport, carrying 120 passengers or freight, and can be adapted for use as tankers with the addition of wing-mounted refuelling pods. The K2s, 3s and 4s all have wing refuelling points for fighters and a centerline refuelling capability to provide additional support for large aircraft.Unmanned AircraftPredator Unmanned Reconnaissance Aircraft (U.S. Air Force) The Predator is used for airborne surveillance reconnaissance and target acquisition. It cruises between 84-140 mph and can range for 400 nautical miles. It has real-time surveillance capabilities, transmitting images without landing. The Predator flies at 26,000 feet and can stay aloft for 24 hours.BombsCluster bombs Highly controversial weapons dropped from the air. They consist of a canister containing a large number of submunitions or bomblets. The bomblets can be anti-personnel, anti-tank, dual-purpose or incendiary. They stay on the ground and explode under pressure like landmines. Human rights groups want them banned; the military sees them as very useful in certain circumstances.Dumb bombs Sometimes called "iron bombs" traditional freefall bombs. The LANTIRN system can be used as a targeting mechanism on dumb bombs. These bombs are primarily used against military formations that are in the open. Fuel-air bombs Vaporize a fuel in the air, then ignite it, producing a fireball and rapidly expanding blast wave many times greater than the explosion from conventional bombs. The explosion creates a vacuum; thus, these bombs are like small nuclear weapons, without the radiation. Useful against targets such as bunkers and caves, where the aerosol cloud can penetrate and the confined space magnifies the blast.Carrier Battle GroupsAircraft carrier An aircraft carrier heads up a carrier battle group. On board the carriers are typically 70-80 planes for defense, attack, refuelling in flight, jamming enemy communications and radars, and for airborne surveillance and control. Carrier Battle Group A group of ships and aircraft deployed for battle. For example, the USS Theodore Roosevelt is the carrier at the head of a battle group involved in the attacks against the Taliban. Included in the Theodore Roosevelt's complement are two attack submarines, the USS Hartford and USS Springfield, which can fire Tomahawk cruise missiles and 2100 Marines aboard a group of vessels led by the assault ship USS Bataan. The troop of 2100 soldiers comes with supporting artillery, amphibious assault vehicles and light armor, plus transport and attack helicopters and AV-8B Harrier II "jump jets," capable of taking off and landing vertically. USS Carl Vinson An aircraft carrier heading up a battle group in the Persian Gulf. Mailing address: USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70) FPO AP 96629-2840 USS Enterprise An aircraft carrier heading up a battle group in the Arabian Sea. USS Kitty Hawk The only US aircraft carrier stationed in the western Pacific, the Kitty Hawk has reportedly left its full complement of fighter jets behind and will be used as a landing pad for helicopters involved in the attack on the Taliban. USS Theodore Roosevelt Aircraft carrier at the head of the battle group involved in the strikes against the Taliban. Included in its complement are two attack submarines, the USS Hartford and USS Springfield, which can fire Tomahawk cruise missiles. The group includes 2100 Marines aboard a group of vessels led by the assault ship USS Bataan. The group includes group troops with supporting artillery, amphibious assault vehicles and light armor, plus transport and attack helicopters and AV-8B Harrier "jump jets," capable of taking off and landing vertically.MissilesAGM-84 Harpoon Standoff land attack missile (SLAM) with a range of about 60 miles. Has accuracy of within 52 feet; a "smart" bomb that uses a global positioning system.AGM-86 Cruise An air-launched cruise missile made by Boeing. Has a range of 1550 miles and a speed of 550 mph, propelled by a turbofan jet engine. The AGM-86 flies at low altitudes and relies on its global positioning system to seek targets. It is launched from the B-52H and B-1B. AGM-88 HARM The AGM-88 HARM (high-speed antiradiation missile) is an air-to-surface anti-radiation missile designed to destroy radar-equipped air defense systems. The proportional guidance system hones in on enemy radar emissions. The F-16C can carry and launch the AGM-88, and is the only aircraft currently equipped with AGM-88. AIM-9 Sidewinder An infrared air-to-air missile that homes onto the heat of a target aircraft and can operate independently of radar. Used in a dog-fighting capacity.Air-to-ground missiles Can have either a TV camera or infrared imaging device in their nose for guidance. This lets the attack crew see the target from the weapon's point of view. They can lock onto the target or, in some types, steer the rocket-powered missiles onto it. Some types of missiles allow one plane to fire and another to guide. Ballistic missile A guided rocket-powered delivery vehicle for use against ground targets. A large portion of its flight is in a ballistic (freefall) trajectory. Ballistic missiles are an optimal delivery systems for weapons of mass destruction because it is difficult to deter them. Cruise missile A generic name for any self-propelled, guided missile that flies at a moderate speed and at a low altitude, following the terrain beneath it. They are a staple of armaments because they are cheap (approximately $600,000 remember, we're talking the military budget), simple to build and can be launched in large numbers from sea, land or air. The Tomahawk is a cruise missile. Digital Scene Matching Area Correlation (DSMAC) DSMAC compares what it can see on the cruise missile's approach to its target with a digital rendition of that target that the missile carries in its memory. DSMAC is dependent on intelligence to provide it with up-to-date information about target buildings and civilian shelters.GBU-28 A 5000-pound laser-guided weapon that can travel more than 5 nautical miles and penetrate earth and rock up to 22 feet before exploding. Global Positioning System Uses a global network of satellites to provide accurate navigational information for sailors, hill walkers, drivers and missiles. The weapon is programmed with the target location and can steer itself towards it by constant reference to the satellites. JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) JDAM is a global positioning system kit that converts freefalling conventional bombs into "smart" ones with a targeting and guidance mechanism. Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW) A new air-to-ground smart bomb with a 15-50 mile range. It uses global positioning to seek targets and is used to attack targets from outside enemy air defenses.Laser-guidance system Laser-guided bombs have a seeker in their nose which tracks a laser beam trained on the target by the aircraft dropping the bomb, another aircraft, or forces on the ground. Terrain Contour Matching (TERCOM) The heart of the cruise missile. TERCOM allows the weapon to "read" the ground over which it flies. The missile itself carries a 3-D map of its route. TERCOM compares a picture of the ground to the map in its memory and adjusts its course as needed. This minimizes radar detection. Raytheon BGM-109 Tomahawk Cruise missile The missile of choice for U.S. forces and the British Royal Navy. A land-attack cruise missile that can travel around 1000 miles. It uses TERCOM and DSMAC intelligence to reach and hit targets and can be launched from ships or submarine torpedo tubes.Special Forces82nd Airborne Division (U.S.) Although not designated a special forces outfit, the 82nd is usually the first U.S. troops to touch ground in a conflict. They were the first to touch ground in Kosovo, the major force in ousting Norega in Panama and, only 7 months later, the first outfit in Saudi Arabia as the Gulf War began. In 1992 these tough guys spent a month in Southern Florida, just ravaged by hurrican Andrew, providing food, shelter and medical attention to a grateful people in that state.Air Force Special Operations Forces (U.S.) The Air Force Special Ops Forces provide transport and close-air support as part of any special ops mission. Close-air support means that they fire on targets, participate in refueling, resupplying and other support tasks. Army Rangers (U.S.) Spearhead of the Army's special operations forces. They are ready to go by land, air and sea, anywhere, at a moment's notice. The Rangers specialize in rapid infantry assault, night fighting and airfield seizure. They are supported by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, better known as "Night Stalkers," which use state-of-the-art aircraft and equipment to assist all special ops forces. Delta Force (U.S.) Delta Force is one of the U.S. military's elite special ops units, drawing members from all military branches. Modeled on the British SAS. The composition, strength and abilities of Delta Force are a secret, as are all of its missions. Their training, however, focuses on counter-terrorism and hostage rescue. Green Berets (U.S.) The real name of the Green Berets is "U.S. Army Special Forces (Airborne)." The name "Green Berets" comes from the most distinctive part of their uniform, of course. The Green Berets appear in a variety of missions, including unconventional warfare, special reconnaissance, direct action and counter-terrorism. They also train guerilla troops in other countries; therefore, each member must be able to speak at least one language other than English. (Do any Green Berets use YDC's resources for language study? We can neither confirm nor deny that.) The Royal Gurkha Rifles (U.K.) The Gurkhas, a British special ops unit that has existed since 1815, has historically been known for its ferocity and military ability. Today there are 3400 troops. Marine Expeditionary Units(U.S.) Not technically a special ops force, the Expeditionary Units are "special ops capable." They're quite capable of quick, compact, multifaceted military campaigns. These units have more equipment, logistical and technical support, weaponry and soldiers than their conventional Marine counterparts, all to the purpose of providing the commander-in-chief with operational maneuver capability from the sea. Each Expeditionary Unit includes 2200 personnel. The infantry battalion uses amphibious assault and light-armored vehicles; the aviation unit employs helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft such as Harrier jets. Navy SEALs (U.S.) SEAL stands for Sea, Air, Land, and the SEALs are the U.S. Navy's most acclaimed special ops unit. They operate mainly in 16-man groups and are capable of conducting top-secret ground- and water-based missions. Larger teams are often divided into "cells" to work at evasion and recovery, force protection, sniper duties, and so forth. Royal Marines (U.K.) The Royal Marines are the British Navy's infantry brigade. They're employed mainly for amphibious operations or from airplanes and retain a commando unit in constant readiness to deploy worldwide on short notice. Parachute Regiment (U.K.) A British Army regiment, the Paras comprise four battalions. One is in a constant state of readiness, while the Pathfinder Platoon conducts reconnaissance and advance missions before any airborne assaults. Special Air Service (U.K.) The most well-known of British special ops units, the SAS lives by the motto "Who Dares Wins." The SAS is a regiment of the British Army, specializing in counter-terrorism operations.Further ReadingJane's Intelligence Digest & Information GroupDefenseLink: U.S. Department of DefenseU.K. Ministry of Defense